Mergers and acquisitions are of major importance in the pharmaceutical industry. In order to evaluate the dynamics of this particular industry, this paper critically evaluates the pre- and post- merger situation of GlaxoSmithKline concerning its ready-access to markets, know-how and management capability. Furthermore, strengths and weaknesses and merger’s outcomes will be outlined. Critical push and pull factors affecting M&A activity in North America will be analysed, using Pfizer and Pharmacia as an example. In addition, general reasons for M&A failure in the pharmaceutical industry will be illustrated focussing on the M&A activity of GlaxoSmithKline. Finally, using two global pharmaceutical players (GSK and Astrazeneca), the merits and demerits of the McKinsey’s five step programme will be discussed.
